FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 21, 2017
Media Inquiries: Anne Marie Aikins
Annemarie.aikins@metrolinx.com
METROLINX STATEMENT ON NEW BOMBARDIER AGREEMENT
TORONTO: December 21, 2017 – Metrolinx has negotiated improved contract terms with Bombardier Transportation that incentivises Bombardier to produce light rail vehicles for the Eglinton Crosstown light rail transit (LRT) system, on-time and of the right quality. The new contract terms have significant financial penalties for Bombardier if they fail to deliver quality vehicles on-time.
This new agreement is positive news for commuters who can continue to have full confidence that we are building an excellent transit system for them. We are focused on building a great Eglinton Crosstown LRT with reliable vehicles that are delivered on-time - this is a decisive and significant step towards that goal.
The agreement is for Bombardier to now manufacture 76 light rail vehicles (LRVs) for the Eglinton Crosstown project, 106 vehicles less than the original contract for 182 vehicles.
Under the new terms, Bombardier has agreed to significantly higher levels of financial penalties if it fails to meet the Eglinton production schedule or if the quality of the vehicles is not acceptable. In addition, Bombardier has committed to ensure that the vehicle quality is sustained throughout the lifespan of the vehicles. The new agreement also provides greater visibility and transparency of Bombardier’s production plans and progress.
We want our suppliers to succeed. The new agreement provides compelling incentives for Bombardier to allocate the right resources and attention to the production of our Eglinton vehicles.
Construction on the Eglinton tunnels, tracks and stations is well underway, and with Bombardier incentivised to deliver the vehicles on time, we look forward to launching this outstanding new service.
Phil Verster
President & CEO, Metrolinx